Suspension designed for China could be N.A. bound

A heavy-duty rubber rear suspension designed for the Chinese domestic market might be a good fit for vocational applications in North America and Europe, according to Gary Gerstenslager, president and CEO of Hendrickson. The new suspension is being manufactured by Hendrickson in China for Sinotruck Ltd., an affiliate of the country’s largest heavy-duty truck manufacturer, China National Heavy Duty Truck Co.

Speaking at the recent IAA Commercial Vehicle truck show in Hannover, Germany, Gerstenslager said the new design offers lighter weight, better durability and higher stability than the typical 6-rod suspension used in that market. With a 27 metric ton capacity, the rubber suspension is 430 kg. (946 lbs.) lighter than competitive 6-rod designs, according to Hendrickson. Higher capacity versions are also planned for the future.

Offering low-maintenance and good-ride characteristics in difficult heavy-hauling conditions, the rubber suspension could be exported to North America for vocational applications within the next 18 months, Gerstenslager said during a press conference at IAA.